John Laird   

Party Preference: Democratic
California Secretary for Natural Resources                www.lairdforcasenate.com            info@lairdforcasenate.com 

This past March, I received strong support from voters when I ran on a platform that called for dramatic steps to tackle climate change, the affordable housing crisis, the goal of universal healthcare coverage and the need for a more sustainable public education system.

Our world has changed in unprecedented ways since then. We are now deeply challenged by a pandemic, the bottom dropped out of our economy, and high-profile incidents of racial injustice have shaken our nation. All of these inter-related issues demand leadership and strong action.

For eight years, I served as Secretary for Natural Resources, working hard on California’s climate change efforts, safeguarding agricultural land, leading the state’s ocean protection program, and pushing back on federal attempts for more offshore oil drilling.

As a Mayor, City Councilmember, Transportation Commissioner, Nonprofit Director and Community College Trustee, I developed experience to tackle the key issues we now face. As an Assemblymember, I authored 82 bills signed into law, on civil rights, environmental protection, first-time homebuyers, community college health services, and more. As Assembly Budget Chair, I navigated difficult fiscal times as I fought for healthcare, education and our environment.

I have earned endorsements from teacher, firefighter, nurse and building trades organizations, as well as the League of Conservation Voters, Equality California, Governor Newsom, former Governor Brown, State Schools Superintendent Thurmond and local mayors, county supervisors and school trustees throughout Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz Counties. I will use my experience, drive and commitment to serve the 17^th Senate District. I respectfully ask for your vote.